Elgato has announced the release of their EyeTV HD DVR solution for Mac users. The device allows users to watch, record, and edit cable and satellite television in high-definition, including premium channels. It also includes a unique dual-format capture mode that records in iPad and iPhone formats at the same time, allowing users to stream live and recorded TV to an iPhone or iPad using the optional EyeTV app. And it includes an infrared remote and IR blaster for automatic control of your cable or satellite receiver. EyeTV HD is available now from the Elgato Online Store and Apple Store for $199.95.

I could be wrong, but my understanding is that HDMI is a one cable solution for component cables (the blue, green and red cables) and audio. The only thing that's a bit confusing is Elgato's choice of the standard white and red audio ports, as opposed to using an optical connection (TOSLINK); it's probably safe to assume that many with an HDTV and HD cable/sat box also have some sort of 5.1 or 7.1 surround system.

I could be wrong, but my understanding is that HDMI is a one cable solution for component cables (the blue, green and red cables) and audio. The only thing that's a bit confusing is Elgato's choice of the standard white and red audio ports, as opposed to using an optical connection (TOSLINK); it's probably safe to assume that many with an HDTV and HD cable/sat box also have some sort of 5.1 or 7.1 surround system.

Close, but not quite. HDMI is essentially DVI plus audio. Component is analog, and thus has no DRM restricting recording. HDMI/DVI have HDCP which prevents recording on devices like this.

With recent devices and TVs, the difference between the two visually is negligible (both support up to 1080p). This is the same reason why they didn't include an optical connection for audio. Be thankful for the analog hole while it lasts since recent developments will likely see it closed in the near future.

Close, but not quite. HDMI is essentially DVI plus audio. Component is analog, and thus has no DRM restricting recording. HDMI/DVI have HDCP which prevents recording on devices like this.

With recent devices and TVs, the difference between the two visually is negligible (both support up to 1080p). This is the same reason why they didn't include an optical connection for audio. Be thankful for the analog hole while it lasts since recent developments will likely see it closed in the near future.

OK, good to know.

However, HDCP aside, by using component, doesn't the source device have to convert from digital to analog, and then the receiving device from analog to digital back again? Maybe the created loss is negligible to the human eye, but doesn't this make using DVI or HDMI, being straight digital to digital, better? Like I said, aside from the damned HDCP..._________________My home setup